Be Bold!

Hello, my family and friends!

This week in the Thompson Station/Spring Hill area, we were able to have dinner with Allison (remember the crazy self-referral we had our first week?  Yeah, that's her!) and her husband and teach them a lesson.  I was worried that since they knew "all about our church and beliefs" and loved missionaries but hadn't been converted yet, that they would become eternigators (investigators who take the lessons forever with no real change happening), but I don't think that's the case with them.  Allison's husband, Mike, was really nice as well and they both would keep on speaking about their admiration for us missionaries and how much they love church members.  Allison said something which really intrigued me though, she said she's done Moroni's challenge, and that she did not feel anything or any pull towards the Book of Mormon, like she does with the Bible.  We invited them to read the Book of Mormon with a specific question in mind.  They said they weren't ready to do that but they would like to do that with the

 Bible instead.  I had the impression while we changed the commitment, that the reason why Allison would rather read the Bible was because she did not have faith that the Book of Mormon is the Word of God and did not want to be disappointed if nothing came of the challenge.  We will be seeing them again and I am eager to work with both Allison and Mike to help build their testimonies of this gospel.

We were not able to meet Jeff but we will be seeing him tomorrow:). We were able to text him reading suggestions and recommend that he read Alma 26 in the Book of Mormon.

We went on exchanges this week too!  I stayed in the area and worked with Sister Ro.  She is my Meridian, Idaho buddy!!  She is really fun and I learned a lot from her.  I've been working on being a better missionary so that I can have the Spirit with me more often, especially as I teach, and Sister Ro gave me a lot of insight as to how I can improve, even though she didn't address my concern directly.  One major thing I learned from her, is I have an increase in my boldness as a missionary.  So many times, I let teaching opportunities pass me by and I know that there are several instances when I can turn the situation into a moment to preach, teach, and testify of a gospel truth, but do not seize the opportunity to do it, right then and there.  It takes a lot of courage and boldness, and I am creating a goal for myself to be more bold as a missionary.  I know that the Lord will bless me and this area for my efforts.

I hope all is going well at home.  4-H sounds like it was crazy and fun!   I love all y'all.

Keep it casual.
Sister Ririe

 Allison taking them to lunch.

Allison visited Nauvoo and brought them souvenirs.